According to an exclusive report from The Chosun Daily, Hyundai Motor Group plans to invest about $7 billion (10 trillion won) to build AI, robotics, and hydrogen energy infrastructure in the Saemangeum area.
The five-year investment is aimed at developing the coastal region as a future technology hub for advanced artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and smart robotics.
The company is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding this week with South Korean government agencies, including the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources, Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, and Ministry of Science and ICT, along with local authorities.
The investment supports Hyundai Motor Group’s plan to build a “hydrogen, AI city” in the renewable-energy-rich coastal area, a source familiar with the project said.
“The investment reflects Hyundai Motor Group’s long-term push into AI mobility, robotics, and green energy infrastructure,” the source added.
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The project will focus on three key areas — an AI data centre, hydrogen energy production, and robotics manufacturing.
Hyundai previously secured 50,000 next-generation AI chips from NVIDIA to support research into autonomous driving, robotics, and smart manufacturing.
For hydrogen development, the company plans to use water electrolysis powered by solar energy to produce green hydrogen.
Robotics production will also expand under the group’s ownership of Boston Dynamics. The plan may include manufacturing platforms such as the mobile robot “Mobed” and wearable industrial robots, though final models have not been confirmed.
Saemangeum was chosen because of its large land area and strong sunlight, which are suitable for renewable energy projects.
The area covers about 409 square kilometres, nearly 140 times the size of Yeouido.
Officials said the investment could create jobs and help support industrial growth in Jeollabuk-do.
The project is the first major step under Hyundai Motor Group’s 125 trillion won domestic investment strategy announced last year.